Terms of reference for a full inquiry into mother and baby homes are due to be agreed today.
Children's minister James Reilly will present the proposals to his cabinet colleagues at this afternoon's meeting - the first of the new year.
The inquiry follows widespread outcry following claims that up to 800 children had been buried in a former septic tank in Tuam, County Galway,
The meeting is also likely to discuss overcrowding at hospital emergency departments, and plans for a new system of mandatory pensions.
